Surprising Science — January 30, 2009

Full Functionality Coming Soon

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Big Think users can expect to see migration issues as well as other essential functionality issues resolved slowly over the course of the next few days, with full functionality expected by Feb. 5, according to Big Think’s director of product development, Rob Hunter. Thank you for bearing with us.

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

A digital illustration of a human brain with blue veins and a glowing light at the top, set against a black background.

The Future

How Neuralink’s chief competitor is tapping into the brain without surgery

“Neurotech is not just about the brain,” says Synchron CTO Riki Banerjee, explaining how their tech can help with paralysis, brain diseases, and beyond.

Starts With A Bang

Ask Ethan: Do gravitons need to exist?

Electromagnetism, both nuclear forces, and even the Higgs force are mediated by known bosons. What about gravity? Does it require gravitons?

Person disguised as a ghost with sunglasses, sitting at an outdoor table.

Neuropsych

Why we ghost

The psychology of people who cut off all communication—and how that affects their partners.

A person in a red shirt stands next to "Waves in an Impossible Sea," the 2024 science book by Matt Strassler. The background displays a blurred bookshelf.

Starts With A Bang

“Waves in an Impossible Sea”: The 2024 science book of the year

Matt Strassler’s journey into fundamental physics culminates in a brilliant explanation of the Higgs field. Enjoy this exclusive interview.

Illustration of a partially hidden scale showing a weight of 240 pounds, with the other half depicting a person in a striped shirt against a blue grid background.

Health

Has the US reached “peak obesity”?

A CDC survey suggests America’s obesity rate may be falling.

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Personal Growth

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